Medieval Women

 

Medieval women can be studied as a stand-alone course and it is an optional course for the Certificate of Higher Education in Genealogical Studies at Aberystwyth University.

Key Facts

 

Language: English

Duration: 10 Weeks

Number of Credits: 10

Tutor: Claire Phillips  

Learning Method: Online

Level: This module is at CQFW Level 4

Module Code: XE18010

Fee: £130.00 - Fee Waiver Scheme available

This course is available to book.

 

Overview

This course aims to introduce students to the lives of a of women in medieval Europe. It looks at the roles they were expected to play in the society of the day; how they could circumnavigate these “rules” and “roles” and through this, at the ways in which power, independence and influence could be achieved. Given their role in society, the course challenges students to consider how women of differing class achieved power and autonomy in this historical period.

Programme 

  • Religious women – Christian
  • Religious women – Jewish and Muslim
  • Noblewomen
  • Peasant women
  • Women in the Town
  • Girls and maidens
  • Marriage and motherhood
  • Widowhood
  • Single women
  • Outcasts

Learning Outcomes

  1. Demonstrate an understanding of the stereotypical roles expected of women in medieval Europe
  2. Identify some of the factors that enabled women to achieve outside those limits
  3. Discuss the ways in which medieval society attempted to re-enforce gender roles

Assessments

  • Source Analysis - 30%
  • Essay - 70%

Reading Suggestions

Reading suggestions will be offered throughout the course. 

Entry Requirements

This course is for everyone. No previous experience is needed and there are no formal entry requirements.

What Do I Need?

As this is an online course, you would need the following:

  • Internet access.
  • Access to a laptop or computer with a web camera and microphone; the use of headphones might also be of benefit.
  • Use of the Chrome web-browser where possible.